What is peer pressure?

• A. Influence from members of one's peer group to engage in certain behaviors, including drug use.
• B. A legal penalty for drug possession.
• C. A form of financial incentive.
• D. Influence from family members.

Answer: (A)

Peer pressure is the influence from people your own age or social group to act in a certain way, often to fit in or be accepted. In the context of drugs, this means friends or classmates encouraging you to try or use substances. The pressure can come directly, like someone urging you to join in, or indirectly, through the sense that “everyone’s doing it.” It’s about social influence from peers rather than family or authorities. Understanding this helps you plan how to respond—you can set boundaries, delay a decision, or choose to spend time with people who respect your choices. Remember, peer pressure can be positive too, when peers encourage healthy behaviours.